BY KELLI GILE
Diamond Bar – One student from each of the nine Walnut Valley elementary schools was honored on September 8. The select group of youngsters had no idea they’d also be receiving brand new bikes during the presentation held at Maple Hill Elementary.
Nine Walnut Valley elementary students were honored during a ceremony on September 8 and were surprised when they received brand new bikes! (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
“The 45-member Leadership Team organized the event to pay tribute to nine of the most outstanding students in the entire District,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.
Each elementary principal, joined by team members, introduced their student and presented a certificate of special recognition. Students were heralded for their hard work, determination, kindness, and making a difference on their campuses.
“They have accomplished a great deal in their educational career already,” Dr. Taylor added.
The honorees are Isabella Acuña (Castle Rock), Melanie Mendietta (Collegewood), Isaac Ochoa (C.J. Morris), Chris Gonzalez (Evergreen), Delia Paula Jaramillo (Maple Hill), Juliet Lugo (Quail Summit), Everhett Cohen (Vejar), Randolph Clark (Walnut Elementary), and Natalie Mora-Monarrez (Westhoff).
“We were thinking, you’re the nine best students in the whole district! What could we do to show how special we really think you are?” said Superintendent Dr. Taylor. “So we called our Walnut Valley Educational Foundation and asked if they would support the project,” he added.
At that signal, nine brand new pink and red bicycles were wheeled into the multi-purpose room for the surprised students, surrounded by their families.
The children beamed when they saw the bikes! They also received matching safety helmets.
“We are so happy to work as a team in support of our schools, teachers, and our kids,” said Foundation President, Cecilia Yeh.
During the summer, members of the Leadership Team, comprised of school and district administrators, assembled the bikes purchased by the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation.
“Watching our Leadership group work in teams to build bikes for a selected student at each elementary school was so heartwarming. Knowing that we were going to honor students for their academic accomplishments, along with a gift of a bike, reaffirmed our district’s KIDS FIRST philosophy. I am so proud to have been a part of this event!” said Jackie Brown, Director of Educational Programs.
